AMONG ROPES, SAILS, TRAPS, AND BOATS: WORKSHOP ON MARITIME CRAFTSMANSHIP TRADITIONS
In the context of the exhibition of traditional boats titled “Di barche e di battelli o de schifi e schifareddhi” set up at the Regional Center dedicated to traditional maritime culture, maritime craftsmanship and seafood products in Tricase, thanks to the AETHER project (INTERREG Greece-Italy), a series of workshops offer a unique opportunity to explore the extraordinary beauty of traditional Apulian seamanship. They provide a fascinating journey through the history of fishing and recreational boats, their construction, traditional navigation techniques, the enchanting culture and the craftsmanship associated with fishing communities.
The theoretical sessions are transformed into an engaging experience through the projection of an authentic documentary treasure, composed of photos, videos, interviews and lessons, preserved at the Media-Library of the Sea of the Port Museum of Tricase. This knowledge archive, the result of in-depth field research, enriches the lessons of the Municipal School of Latin Sailing and Ancient Seafaring.
The workshops go beyond a discussion of sea-related traditions. They are a practical immersion into ropes, sails, traps, reeds, oars, and wood.
The construction of traps, supported by the fascinating explanations of the trap makers of Santa Maria di Leuca, captures the participants’ attention, allowing them to experience the practical weaving of reeds for trap construction—fishing traps as ancient (yet still relevant) as they are interesting and certainly sustainable.
The art of ropemaking is also one of the intriguing moments, allowing a rediscovery of the figure of the rope maker, an indispensable professional in a territory that is both sea and land, a craftsman essential for the production of lines for sail rigging, nets and other fishing equipment, as well as ropes necessary for agricultural activities.
All practical activities are guided by experts from the Magna Grecia Mare Association, who have not only shared theoretical knowledge but also authentic tools, equipment and materials.
The workshops are a tribute to the craftsmanship of coastal communities and an important step in preserving ancient trades, strengthening the connection with Puglian maritime traditions.
One workshop was successfully held on December 9, but we invite you to contact the Magna Grecia Mare Association (at the address segreteria@portomuseotricase.org) to organize, together, additional practical training sessions related to the world of traditional seamanship.
